Fire Liaison with Government Authorities

In Maharashtra, India, liaison between fire services and government authorities is a formal and defined process governed mainly by the Maharashtra Fire Prevention and Life Safety Measures Act, 2006 and overseen by the state's Urban Development Department. The liaison encompasses collaboration and coordination between the Director of Fire Services (DFS), Chief Fire Officers at municipal levels, and various Central and State Government offices to develop and implement fire services policies and operations effectively.

Key points about fire liaison

• Organizational Structure: The Director of Fire Services under Urban Development Department controls the state's fire force, working closely with municipal Chief Fire Officers, who oversee fire departments and stations.
• Duties of the Director of Fire Services: Among their powers and functions is to keep liaison with Central and State Government offices to promote the development of fire services and ensure enforcement of fire safety measures.
• Legal Framework: The Maharashtra Fire Prevention and Life Safety Measures Act mandates fire safety compliance, accident response, and the appointment of fire officers in large or hazardous buildings, with liaison roles defined for policy framing and coordination with government.
• Municipal Fire Services' Role: Municipal Corporations, under the Chief Fire Officer, coordinate fire incident handling, fire prevention in buildings and offices, enforcing safety norms, and liaising with government bodies as per policy guidelines.
• Coordination for Fire NOC and Safety Approvals: Fire services also engage in liaison for issuance of fire safety certificates, no-objection certificates (NOCs), and inspections required by government regulations.
• Training and Awareness: Fire departments coordinate with government agencies for training, public awareness, and readiness drills, ensuring that fire safety policies are effectively communicated and implemented.